The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story

Chapter 0262

During a mental self–defense lesson, Julian tried to instruct me on the best way to evade answering

Terry’s invasive questions.

“He’ll goad you,” Julian said. “You just have to keep your head. If all else fails, just don’t say a word. He

can’t twist your words if you don’t give him any to twist.”

As the lesson went on, I started to notice something was off with Julian. He didn’t smile as much as he

had in the past. A line was often seen splitting his brow.

I stopped him near the end of the lesson. I couldn’t wait any more before asking, “Are you okay?”

He opened his mouth. Closed it. Blinked a few times. “What makes you ask?”

“You seem… different. Like something’s bothering you.”

He laughed a little, but it sounded nervous. “Can’t a guy have some nerves before a big operation? This

event could make our break our entire case against the underground organization.”

I shrugged. “It’s not like you to show your nerves. Usually you play it off.”

“Yeah, well, I guess there’s more to lose this time than usual.”

I tilted my head, confused. “What do you mean?”

He sighed. “Come on, Piper. Is it so hard to believe that I’m actually worried about you and Elva?”

The words startled me. “You… are worried… about me?”

“And Elva,” he said.

It was hard to believe. I never bought into the idea Julian often pushed of himself, that he cared for no one but himself. But to hear him say he was actually worried for Elva and I… And to see it in the lines of his face, and the slight tremble of his voice…

I couldn’t help but be taken aback.

Thave something for you,” he said, and reached into the bag he had at his side. From it, he produced a

all velvet box, He handed it to me. “It might help us both.”

open the box. Inside was a beautiful golden necklace, a pendant on a chain. The pendant was

of a full

જેમાં

1. along the chain.

to the tow

box then held it out for me. As it dangled, I saw that the

GPS and a panic button. If you are in trouble, all you have to do

my phone. I can come rescue you, no matter

Such a thoughtful and beautiful gift. “Thank you so much, Julian. Does

get the message?”

me the gift, hesitated. His smile wavered. For a half- second, I could have sworn I saw a flash of hurt in his eyes. But between one blink and the next, it was

gone.

didn’t mean –”

Piper. I can set it up so it goes to him too. The more the better, anyway. Increase those

saving you.”

was acting strangely now. Talking too fast.

me, which he must have to

Yet…

I

on,

pick out my dress. I held up the dress that fit me like a circus tent. This was the only one Nicholas approved of.

couldn’t possibly wear

the modest black gown with the high

The gold glistened against the

kissed Elva goodbye.

good for your Nanny and Mark,”

will she promised,

sake that she shouldn’t go anywhere

to

+15 BONUS

worry about anything, Piper,” Mark said. “We’ll be secure

“Thank you, Mark.”

where I met with the other candidates. A line of black sedans circled down the driveway. Each car stopped and a

it was down to the last three of us, Nicholas

wait for his own car. When he saw me, he

and his lip curled

swallowed hard. He looked angry.

Or both.

me before I could even think to move. He grabbed

closer to the house, away

asked, voice low and growly. He dragged

at